Adults

Together We’ll Find the Way

At Shandon, you’ll discover diverse, life-enriching opportunities, for all ages and life stages, that allow you to grow closer to God, connect and build real relationships, and expand your faith. From diverse Sunday school classes and small group studies and communities, to church-wide activities, you’ll find lots of choices for spiritual and personal enrichment, and lots of opportunities to develop close friendships and to make a difference. There are many ways to get connected and to be involved.

For more information about adult ministries or to get connected, contact Ruthie Taylor, Director of Adult Studies, at rtaylor@shandon-umc.org or Lesli Wood, Director of Christian Education and Programs, at lwood@shandon-umc.org

Would you like to have a conversation about your faith journey? How to begin or how to go deeper on your journey? Maybe you’re searching for more meaning in your life? Maybe you’re searching for connection and a place to belong? We’re here to talk. If you’d like to talk about your faith journey, contact Lesli Wood, Director of Christian Education and Programs, at 256-8383, ext. 108 or lwood@shandon-umc.org.

Fall Doorways to God – Adult Christian Education Classes

Our Doorways adult classes are a great way to quickly get plugged in and equipped. Some classes can be short and dedicated to a topic or book, while other classes are ongoing communities.

Fall 2022 Doorways classes will begin the week of September 12, 2022. Registration for Doorways is online only. All students will be asked to purchase and bring their own book except for Disciple I and Christian Believer.

If you need a copy of the Disciple I and Christian Believer Study Manuals, there are a few copies available at the church. These books must be paid for using the form below while supplies last. Paid books can be picked up in the office of Annette Hammond during office hours (Monday–Thursday from 9-5 p.m.)

Disciple I
Leader: Rev. Smoke Kanipe
Book:Disciple I Study Manual, Abington Press
ISBN: 9780687783496
Dates: Sundays, September 11–Sunday, May 7, 2023
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Duration: 34 weeks
Location: George Huggins Upper Room, Knox 209
Childcare: available with registration
This survey of the entire Bible reveals how God moves through ordinary people and their circumstances to do extraordinary things. The multi-faceted stories in the Old and New Testaments are permeated with a common theme of divine grace. Come experience with others a foundation of study that will enhance all of your future studies of the Bible.

Christian Understanding the Major Beliefs of the Christian Faith from the Nicene Creed
Leader: Ret. Rev. Robert Cox
Book:Christian Believer Study Manual, Abington Press
ISBN: 9780687075638
Dates: Sundays, September 11–November 13 (9 weeks) and January 8, 2023–February 26, 2023 (8 weeks)
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Duration: 17 weeks
Location: Genesis Classroom, Knox 204
Childcare: available with registration
Join Retired Reverend Robert Cox as he unpacks the Nicene creed using the Christian Believer curriculum. If you have ever taken a Disciple course, you will want to participate in this study: Understanding the Major Beliefs of the Christian Faith from the Nicene Creed.

Monday Men’s Bible Study
Leader: Rev. James Grubb
Day: Mondays, September 12 – November 28
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Duration: 12 weeks
Location: Player Hall
When a charismatic Pentecostal preacher commits a crime of passion and goes on the run, his faith and calling are tested. This film explores Christian themes of sin, the Bible, spiritual journey, calling, conversion, baptism, redemption, sacrifice, and forgiveness. Robert Duvall wrote, directed, and stars in this dynamic film and is thought of by many as his greatest performance. All men are welcome to join Rev James Grubb, who will lead the discussion.

Resident Aliens
Leader: Dr. Bill Brannon
Book: Resident Aliens by Stanley Hauerwas and Will Willimon
ISBN: 9781426781902
Day: Tuesdays, September 13 – November 8
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Duration: 9 weeks
Location: George Huggins Upper Room, Knox 209
In conjunction with our guest preacher Rev. Dr. Will Willimon, who will be preaching at Shandon UMC on October 9, Bill Brannon will be leading a discussion on one of Rev. Willimon’s many books. Join the group as together you unpack this provocative Christian assessment of culture and ministry for people who know something is wrong. Consider with the group how to nurture Christian life and community rather than reform secular culture; and instead of turning America into a “Christian” state, we should view ourselves as “resident aliens” in a foreign land.

Acts: Awakening to God in Everyday Life
Leader: Betty Neal
Book: Acts: Awakening to God in Everyday Life Participant Workbook, by Melissa Spoelstra
ISBN: 97815018206
Dates: Wednesdays, September 21 – November 9
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Duration: 7 Weeks
Location: Genesis Classroom, Knox 204
Join the journey with the first followers of Jesus and witness the birth and growth of the early church through spiritual awakening to the power of God’s Spirit, message, freedom, grace, mission, and direction. From their experiences, you will learn postures that will help you attune your own spiritual heart to experience God’s presence, hear God’s voice, and see God at work all around.

Prayer Group
Leader: Lilla Ann Briggs
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Duration: Ongoing
Location: Zoom
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2 NIV
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 NIV
“Prayer does not equip you for the greater work, it is the greater work.” Oswald Chambers
Please email Lilla Ann at forgiventoo7@gmail.com for an invitation to the Zoom Prayer Group.

Financial Peace
Leader: Joanna and John Kleckley
Book: Financial Peace Kit by Dave Ramsey
Cost: $129.99 Ramsey+ Subscription to be paid online at https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/classes/1152847
Dates: Wednesdays, September 14 – November 9
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Duration: 9 weeks
Location: Genesis Classroom, Knox 204
Childcare: available with registration
Amidst the uncertainty of our world, we all desire some peace, and regarding finances, this desire is no different. What would it be like to be content with your finances or to know what it is to manage your money, rather than having your money manage you? COVID-19 hit the pause button in many areas of life and has given us a new perspective on what is important regarding our choices and what is healthy as related to habits. What about your spending? Does it reflect your faith and your priorities? Do you have a financial plan for emergencies, dreams, or retirement? Take a positive step and join us for Financial Peace University. After registering to be a part of our SUMC group, you will watch the workshop videos at your convenience and on your own each week prior to our group discussions.

One Man Sharpens Another
Leader: Rev. James Grubb
Book: Modern Parables – Living in the Kingdom of God, Volume I Study Guide by Thomas Purifoy, Jr. and Jonathan Roger, Ph.D.
ISBN: 0979852412
Day: Wednesdays, September 15 – November 9
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Duration: 9 weeks
Location: 11th Grade Classroom (Dunn Smith 216/217)
Childcare: available with registration
Modern Parables is a film-based study on six of Jesus’ parables (Hidden Treasure, The Samaritan, The Shrewd Manager, The Widow, and the Judge, The Sower, The Prodigal Sons). Short films present the parables in modern settings to help us grasp more clearly the deeper meaning and nuances of Jesus’ illustrative stories. This study is intended for busy men who are seeking to better understand and apply Christ’s teachings to their daily lives. Come join Rev James Grubb and the lively discussion.

James
Leader: Meredith Dreibelbis
Book: James by Dr. David Jeremiah
ISBN: 9780310091806
Day: Thursdays, September 8 – November 17
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Duration: 11 weeks
Location: Parlor (Bruner)
In the NT book of James, the short epistle shows the connection between faith and works. James’ words read like a collection of wisdom instructions, wanting us to demonstrate actions that will prove to believers and the world that our faith is genuine. Come join the group and dig deep into the scripture of James.

Adults Events

Dec
11th

Photo Directory – Last Call Photo Shoot

Bruner Building | 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; noon to 1:00 p.m.

New Church Directory Photo Sessions – A special “In-House” photo session has been established for any family or individuals who could not get their photos taken by Universal Church Directories during October and November. The date is next Sunday, December 11. The times are from 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and noon to 1:00 p.m. Please sign up for your time by visiting shandon-umc.org/photos to secure your spot.

More info

Dec
14th

Wednesday Manna

Player Hall – Dunn-Smith | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Manna is a weekly fellowship meal with our church family and friends on Wednesday evenings in Player Hall. Food service is from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.; pre-registration is required: shandon-umc.org/register. Childcare in the gym is available from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. Menus are planned but may change based on the availability of food supplies.

HOT BAR:

December 7: Chicken Bog, Slaw, Fruit, Roll, and Dessert

December 14: Chicken Fingers, Macaroni and Cheese, Green Beans, Roll, and Dessert

The last Manna for 2022 will be December 14. Manna will resume Wednesday, January 11, 2023.

COLD BAR: Prepared Mixed Green Salad with Grilled Chicken Breast

CHILDREN’S MEAL OPTION (includes dessert):

December 7: Turkey & Cheese Wrap & December 14: Cheese Quesadilla

ONLINE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED – The deadline to order Wednesday Meals is Monday by 5:00 p.m. at shandon-umc.org/registe r.

More info

Dec
15th

SUMC Book Club

Bruner Building

SUMC Book Club now meets on 3rd Thursdays, in person from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Discussing what you read is an easy and enjoyable way to get to know people on a deeper level and to expand your thinking and faith. Come join the conversation! The books are in a broad range and chosen six months out at regular meetings. Newcomers are warmly welcomed any time.

Dec. 15: Choosing 2023 books/socializing.

To be on the mailing list and receive reminders, contact Anne Cox at anne41450@aol.com.

More info

Dec
16th

Mobile Mammography Bus

Parking Lot (across from church)

The Prisma Health Mobile Mammography Van is coming again to Shandon on Friday, December 16, 2022, in Shandon’s parking lot across Devine Street. If you are 40 years of age or older, no doctor’s order is required. All of those under the age of 40 will have to have an order. All participants need to bring their insurance card and a picture ID. Note: You cannot schedule a mammogram within six weeks of receiving a COVID Booster shot. Reservations may be made by calling 803.434.9100. Be sure to specify that the location is for Shandon United Methodist Church.

More info

Dec
18th

Benefit Concert for El Salvador Mission Trip

Sanctuary | 4:00 p.m.

Benefit Concert for El Salvador Mission Trip, Sunday, December 18, 4:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary

More info

Dec
24th

Christmas Eve Family Service – 4 p.m.

Sanctuary – Bruner Building | 4:00 p.m.

Experience Christ at the center of your Christmas Eve. All services will include familiar carols and the wonderful scriptures telling of Christ’s birth. Each service will be similar, and yet, each will have something different to make it special. Invite your family and friends as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Communion Service – Sanctuary

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

Sharing the Christmas story with narration, costumes, familiar carols, and music
by the Children’s Choirs. Features a live nativity with animals and the lighting of
“glow sticks.”

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

More info

Dec
24th

Christmas Eve Family Service – 6 p.m.

Sanctuary – Bruner Building | 6:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Communion Service – Sanctuary

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

Sharing the Christmas story with narration, costumes, familiar carols, and music
by the Children’s Choirs. Features a live nativity with animals and the lighting of
“glow sticks.”

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

More info

Dec
24th

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – 9 p.m.

Sanctuary – Bruner Building | 9:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Communion Service – Sanctuary

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

Sharing the Christmas story with narration, costumes, familiar carols, and music
by the Children’s Choirs. Features a live nativity with animals and the lighting of
“glow sticks.”

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service

9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

More info

Jan
20th

Come to the Well – Women’s Retreat

Asheville, NC | The Cove

Women of all Ages, Community also welcome to attend, invite your friends. Renew your Spirit, Rest your Body, Nurture your Faith, Encourage your Discipleship. Join us as we make time to reflect on God’s presence in our lives and recommit to making time for Him each day. **Check-in will begin at 4:00 p.m. Our retreat will begin with dinner on Friday evening and will close following our worship service on Sunday morning.

More info

Jan
22nd

TREK – Shandon’s Pathway to Membership

Wesley Hall / Betty Bruner Building

TREK, Shandon’s new member path, is a three-session course to connect you with others new to Shandon, familiarize you with Shandon’s campus, discuss topics related to the Christian faith and United Methodist Church, and help you discover opportunities to serve and be served. For more information about TREK and to register for the May session, please visit shandon-umc.org/trek. For any further questions, please contact Rev. James Grubb at jgrubb@shandon-umc.org.

TREK COURSE KICKS OFF JANUARY 22
TREK is Shandon UMC’s pathway to membership. Our next course begins January 22 at 4pm. It’s designed to help you connect with our ministers and staff, our ministries, and one another.

If you are already a Shandon member and know someone interested in joining, please share this information with them.

Schedule of Sessions:
Sunday, Jan 22: 4-5:30pm Session 1 in Wesley Hall (Bruner Building)

Sunday, Jan 29: 9:45-10:45am Sunday School Visit
4-5:30pm Session 2 in Wesley Hall

Wednesday, Feb 1: 5:15-6pm Dinner at Manna in Player Hall
6-7:30pm Session 3 in Wesley Hall

For details and to register, go to shandon-umc.org/register. If you still have questions, please contact Pastor James Grubb at jgrubb@shandon-umc.org or call the church office Monday -Thursday.

More info

Sunday school is base camp for becoming disciples – establishing a foundation for discovering God, building relationships, and exploring and growing in Christian faith. It’s where faith comes alive through engaging, relevant study and discussion, discipleship is nurtured and strengthened, and close friendships grow.

At Shandon, you’ll find 12 adult Sunday school classes for all ages and life stages. Classes meet each Sunday from 9:45-10:45 a.m. Some classes are comprised of similar ages and life experiences and others are focused around common interest of topics. The classes are diverse, engaging, and focus on exploring the Bible and relevant, contemporary studies as well as an emphasis on community service and social activities.

Couples and Singles, 30s-50s. Bruner Building, 221.

Bible-based discussion studies are led by volunteers from within the class. Social, family, and mission activities are an important part of this class. They are a mission-oriented class that builds relationships through service, and they have occasional social outings.

Come and listen to a biblically based lecture series led by Dr. David Shields, a distinguished USC professor. Bring your Bible as David reads scripture each week and provides commentary, historical context, and insight.
• Learn alongside others.
• Not your typical Sunday School class.
• Open to all.
• Located in the Chapel on the first floor of the Betty Bruner Building.

Couples, 30s-early 40s. Knox Building, 208.

Offers opportunities to meet and grow together as couples and followers of Jesus Christ. Bible study around everyday concerns facing young couples today: marriage, raising a family, living as Christians in the workplace, etc. Members volunteer to facilitate and a team of regular guest teachers often lead. They stay in touch through email and many social activities. The class volunteers at Epworth Children’s Home.

Couples, late 40s-60s. Knox Building, 214.

Large class that thrives on lively, open-minded discussions and lectures on contemporary issues and short-term topics. Members are supportive in all areas of church life. Social events include a party at Christmas and in the spring. A weekly class email keeps members connected with prayer concerns and class news.

Couples and Singles, 70s+. Knox Building, 209.

Large class with a warm, friendly atmosphere. They use the Adult Bible Studies curriculum led by a team of class members. Class members regularly participate in mission work including visiting shut-ins and providing food for the Family Shelter. They have once-a-month dinners and other social events, and have a weekly email.

Couples and Singles, late 30s-40s. Knox Building, 201.

Many in the class want to learn by facilitating lessons from the Bible or often a DVD-based study. It’s comfortable for either spouse to come alone, when the other can’t. This circle of friends surrounds each other in good and hard times, as they grow together in faith. Fun is high priority and often includes their young children. The class also makes time for a variety of service projects.

Young Couples, 30s. Bruner Building, 223.

Focuses on being disciples of Christ through Bible-based studies with relevant messages for life today, service to others, and supporting each other through a strong fellowship community. The class has an ongoing partnership with a boys cottage at Epworth Children’s Home and is committed to hands-on service and relationships with those boys.

70s-80s. Bruner Building, 220.

Putting Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself last is the foundation for this class of mostly “older” professional men and women who strive to exemplify their name. Dr. Harvey Allen, their long-time teacher, teaches toward this goal. They financially support many local charitable organizations. They enjoy Christmas, Fall and Spring social activities. A large class of over 160 members who stay connected with a weekly email of news of celebrations, prayer concerns and a synopsis of the Sunday school lesson.

Couples and Singles, 40s-80s. Bruner Building, 224.

A Reconciling Ministries Class that welcomes and celebrates human differences such as sexual orientation, socioeconomic condition, and spiritual journey. Varied life experiences include civil rights initiatives, military service, community and international work and travel. They often explore early Christian thought, contemporary Christianity and ethical teachings, and current events/social concerns as they occur. The class provides financial support for many church and community ministries. They also enjoy time together on outings and meals, and Christmas Brunch is a much-anticipated yearly event.

Couples and Singles, Mid-20s to Mid-30s. Bruner Building, 216.

Offers young adults and young professionals the opportunity to foster Christian friendships and relationships. With peer- and guest-led, discussion-based lessons on current events and biblical topics, Path Finders allows participants to deepen their personal relationship with Christ through the study of scripture. Through service in the community as well as social activities, Path Finders creates opportunities to live out Christian discipleship and deepen relationships with one another.

Couples and Singles, 65+. Bruner Building, Wesley Hall.

Knows the long history of Shandon, through experience. They are a warm group of men and women who care for one another and the congregation. A team of rotating guest teachers gives lectures from the Adult Bible Studies curriculum. They enjoy fellowship, cake and coffee before class.

Day and evening discussion studies delve into a large variety of subjects. The fall and winter programs provide opportunities for more in-depth spiritual and personal enrichment and nurture.

Topics have included:

Understanding the Bible: Bible Studies
Discipleship
Prayer
Financial Peace
The Bible and Music
Faith, Christianity
Studies Especially for Women and for Men
Parenting in Today’s Society
Sunday School Specials for Adult Classes

Small groups sharing life together as disciples of Christ with real connections and deep, meaningful relationships. D-group is about going deeper – with three core principles: pushing one another forward, lifting one another up and sending one another out.

Maybe you've been part of a small group – a Sunday school class or a Bible study – and now you’re searching for something more. Or maybe you've never been part of a small group. Maybe commitments have made it challenging to plug-in and grow in your faith as much as you’d like. Whatever the case, D-groups are available for men, women and couples. The groups meet at various locations, at the church, in homes or at off campus locations with times ranging from mornings to afternoons to evenings, and childcare is provided on Wednesday evenings.

Renew your spirit, rest your body, nurture your faith, and encourage your discipleship. Women of all ages are invited to join our annual weekend women’s retreat each January at The Cove in Asheville, NC. At The Well we make time to reflect on God's presence in our lives and recommit to making time for Him each day. Enjoy prominent speakers as we worship, study, pray, and play together. The Well is open to both Shandon members and the community.

More Information

Connect with a small group community and experience close friendships and personal and spiritual growth.

Through warm fellowship, spiritual growth and dedicated service, women of all ages are invited to grow in Christ, support each other, and care for others through local and global missions. The Shandon UMW is composed of close to 150 women of all ages with four Circles plus a Youth Circle that meet regularly during the school year. During the year, there are four general membership meetings, two in the evening with supper and two are at lunchtime. They also sponsor an annual Garage Sale that has become a shopping staple in the Columbia community and a successful fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. New members are always welcome.

UMW Circles

Augusta Beckman Circle: Monthly meetings on the first Monday after the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in member homes or at the church.
Mary Campbell Circle: Monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at member homes or at the church.
Ola B. Taylor Circle: Monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the church.
Susanna Wesley Circle: Monthly meetings on the second week of the month at 6:30 p.m. in member homes or at the church.
Daughters of Esther (youth 9th grade and up): Monthly meetings on the first Sunday of the month from 12:00-1:30 p.m.

Men of all ages gather together to be in fellowship, share meals, play and be active, dig into study, and serve. They get together monthly for a hearty breakfast, a centered time of prayer for families, the community and world, and fellowship. The group also strengthens their faith through studies, enjoys man nights with outings like ballgames and barbecue, attends an annual men’s retreat, and they’re active in community service. For more information contact Rev. James Grubb at jgrubb@shandon-umc.org.

Enjoying and sharing life together… Adults 65+. Focused on providing fun and fellowship activities. Day trips to locations such as Asheville and Hendersonville, NC, and Charleston, SC with activities like apple picking, shopping, dining at quaint local eateries and touring attractions. Fun and fellowship on the church campus through Trivia Nights, Greening our Faith, seasonal parties, and more. Monthly lunch adventures at local restaurants as well as dates for Koger Broadway shows, concerts, local theater productions and attractions throughout the Midlands. For more information contact Susan Curran, Director of Older Adult Ministries, at scurran@shandon-umc.org.

Share a love for literature. If you enjoy interesting conversation and sharing viewpoints, the stories and characters in books always provide great subject matter and stretch your thinking about all kinds of subjects that affect our lives and faith. The books are in a broad range and chosen six months out at Book Club regular meetings. The SUMC Book Club meets on the third

Wednesday of each month from 5:30-6:30 p.m. To be on the mailing list, contact Anne Cox at anne41450@aol.com.

Helping people in need. People in today’s world are faced with many challenges. At Shandon, you’ll find concerned people of all ages dedicated to putting their faith into action and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Missions is a key ministry area through which we reach out to our neighbors – down the street and around the world. At Shandon, our mission involvement is wide-ranging.

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Relax and enjoy life together. With today’s fast-paced lives, we all need time to relax and reenergize. At Shandon, you’ll find a variety of leisure events and activities for all ages where we come together as a church family to enjoy life and have fun.

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Get Connected

AT SHANDON UNITED METHODIST

Adults

Together We’ll Find the Way

Fall Doorways to God – Adult Christian Education Classes

Adults Events

Dec
11th

Photo Directory – Last Call Photo Shoot

Bruner Building | 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; noon to 1:00 p.m.

Dec
14th

Wednesday Manna

Player Hall – Dunn-Smith | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Dec
15th